Earwax may not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an important part in keeping your ears healthy. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate regular cleaning endeavours, earwax usually takes care of itself. Overly frequent attempts to eliminate it can actually be counterproductive. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural material generated by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually beneficial. Its primary role is to protect your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, regular upkeep is sufficient and no extra cleaning is needed. Your ears are made to clean themselves out. Routine daily actions like eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the elimination of earwax by slowly propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or rinsed off.
Most children and adults never have to worry about removing earwax. However, with time, it can build up and become a problem for some people.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
Although earwax generally benefits our bodies, it can occasionally lead to problems, especially when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a worry: indications of a potential problem
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, creating a blockage. It’s fine to use these carefully around the outer ear, but avoid inserting them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs can impede the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to collect and potentially lead to obstructions.
- Excessive earwax creation: A prevalent problem for some individuals, leading to a higher likelihood of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Watch For
Excessive Earwax: Potential symptoms and repercussions to be aware of:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some situations, impacted earwax can even lead to an infection. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Speaking with a medical expert is advised if you are noticing extreme earwax build-up. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably eliminate it in the office. Some individuals try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, especially if you have a history of ear issues, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is usually beneficial, but if it is causing discomfort, address the problem. We’re dedicated to assisting you in maintaining ear health and preserving sharp hearing.
Contact us to schedule an appointment if you’re worried about earwax accumulation or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai
